Head of Quality

Axiom Space is a human space exploration company, building era-defining space infrastructure and delivering technology-driven solutions that will empower civilization to transcend Earth. Beginning with Axiom Station, successor to the International Space Station, the company is pioneering a next-generation orbital settlement that will foster groundbreaking innovation and research in microgravity and drive the global space economy of tomorrow. Today, guided by the vision of leading humanity's expansion off planet, Axiom Space is the principal provider of commercial human spaceflight services and developer of advanced spacesuits for the Moon and beyond. For more information about Axiom Space, visit www.axiomspace.com. Axiom Space fosters a work environment inclusive of all perspectives. We are the pioneers of commercial space, leading the transformation of low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace. Our mission-driven team is seeking a Head of Quality who is fueled by high accountability and ownership, growth mindset, and driven to understand our world, science/technology, and life itself, for the benefit of all on Earth and beyond. POSITION SUMMARY The Head of Quality is a senior organizational leader responsible for building and sustaining a high-performance quality function across design, manufacturing, and field operations. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this role owns the quality management system (QMS), regulatory certification posture, and the culture of quality across all programs. This role leads a team of quality engineers, inspectors, and auditors and serves as the primary quality liaison with customers, regulatory authorities, and certification bodies. Leads the enterprise quality organization, setting strategy and standards for product assurance, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement across all programs. Level and salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Own and evolve the company-wide QMS in compliance with AS9100 Rev D and applicable FAA/EASA regulations  Define quality strategy aligned to company growth, program milestones, and customer requirements  Lead the quality organization through hiring, development, and performance management  Serve as the management representative for all third-party and regulatory audits (DCMA, customer, NADCAP)  Drive a metrics-driven culture: OTD, escape rate, DPPM, cost of poor quality (COPQ)  Executive escalation point for all critical NCRs, field escapes, and MRB dispositions  Champion design for quality, DFMEAs, and systems engineering integration  Partner with the COO and executive team on risk management and program reviews  Establish and enforce supplier quality standards in coordination with supply chain  Support business development by representing quality in proposal reviews and customer audits  Leadership & Strategy Builds organizational capability through coaching and talent development  Balances safety culture with program schedule and cost realities  Drives systemic improvement rather than reactive firefighting  Influences cross-functionally without direct authority  Makes principled decisions under regulatory and customer scrutiny  Serve as a strategic advisor to the Chief Operating Officer and leadership on quality, compliance, and risk matters Help define and execute the company’s overall quality strategy in alignment with business goals Perform other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS:  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Note: Level and compensation will be commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate. Education & Experience B.S. in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering; M.S. or MBA preferred  12+ years of quality engineering and leadership experience in aerospace or defense  Demonstrated experience leading quality organizations of 5+ people  Deep expertise in AS9100, NADCAP, FAR/DFAR, and DAL/DO-178 (as applicable)  Experience as a management representative for AS9100 or comparable certification  Proven track record managing DCMA or FAA oversight relationships  CQE or CQM/OE certification (ASQ) strongly preferred  Familiarity with ITAR/EAR compliance obligations at the enterprise level  Executive-level communication skills; experience presenting to C-suite and customers  Functional Competencies Strong business judgment and ability to balance risk with commercial objectives Excellent written and verbal communication skills Proven ability to operate in a fast‑paced, evolving environment Collaborative leadership style and influencing skills Strong project management discipline, highly organized, and takes ownership. Uses sound judgement to problem-solve proactively, positively impacting hard challenges Demonstrated organization skills to meet tight deadlines with high quality results Strong agility and adaptability to integrate quickly into a small team. Persona Passion for space and the mission. Entrepreneurial, growth mindset. High EQ and ability to collaborate within teams and cross-functionally. Tech-solutioning in using systems and tools to move smarter and faster. Core Competencies: Embody our core values of Leadership, Innovation, and Teamwork. In addition, to perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: Accountability Technical Rigor Execution Discipline Pride of Delivery WORK ENVIRONMENT: Generally, an office environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Requirements  Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation. Management has the discretion to select at any level for which the position is advertised. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is a requirement for this position. Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical milestones. Axiom Space is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.  Axiom Space does not discriminate on the basis of race, regional color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.